Global Byzantium: Papers from the Fiftieth Spring Symposium of Byzantine Studies

Global Byzantium is a recasting and expansion of the old 'Byzantium and its neighbors' theme, with a methodological twist away from the political and toward the cultural and economic. It also endorses comparative methodology, the importance of the local, and the empires strategic geographical location. It was a crucial intermediary between Europe, Africa, and Asia, holding the Christian world together and being a critical transit point between the various Islamic polities and the Christian world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 424 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Global Byzantium is a fascinating and innovative approach to studying the Byzantine Empire and its neighbors. It takes a methodological twist away from the traditional political focus and towards the cultural and economic aspects of the empire. This shift allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the complex and multifaceted empire.

One of the key concepts of Global Byzantium is comparative methodology. This approach emphasizes the importance of comparing different regions and cultures within the empire and beyond. By examining the similarities and differences between Byzantium and other regions, scholars can gain a deeper understanding of the empire's place in the world.

Another important issue that Global Byzantium addresses is cultural capital. In the past, Byzantium was often defined as culturally superior to Western Christian Europe. However, this notion has been increasingly criticized, and a more nuanced approach is emerging. Global Byzantium recognizes the importance of cultural exchange and appropriation rather than blind copying. It explores how Byzantium influenced other cultures and how these influences were adapted and transformed over time.

The importance of the local is also a critical aspect of Global Byzantium. The empire was characterized by a diverse and complex landscape, with different regions and cultures influencing each other. By examining the local perspective, scholars can gain a better understanding of how the empire was perceived and interacted with by its neighbors.

Furthermore, Global Byzantium considers the empire's strategic geographical location. Situated between the fourth and thirteenth centuries, Byzantium was a crucial intermediary between Europe, Africa, and Asia. It played a significant role in trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. The empire's location also made it a target for invasion and conquest, which had a profound impact on its history and development.

In conclusion, Global Byzantium is a groundbreaking approach to studying the Byzantine Empire and its neighbors. It offers a fresh perspective on the empire's history and significance by emphasizing the cultural, economic, and geographical aspects of the empire. Through comparative methodology and a focus on the local, Global Byzantium provides a deeper understanding of the empire's place in the world and its impact on other cultures.

Weight: 990g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367260149